Student leadership in action is the highlight of this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego. Several of our high school students are members of the Oregon Youth Leadership Alliance (OYLA), a student-run organization dedicated to youth leadership and networking across Oregon. Recently, they helped organize and host the 2026 BIPOC Student Leadership Conference at Lakeridge High School, bringing together students, nonprofit leaders, and elected officials from across the Portland Metro area to focus on leadership, advocacy, networking, and belonging.

Tara Reddy and Layla Riquelme-Cheung are two of the student organizers behind the conference. They share what it takes to plan a regional, student-led event, why creating spaces for BIPOC students and welcoming allies matters, and how young leaders are building connections and shaping their communities.

Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD

Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD

Tara Reddy, Student, Lakeridge High School

Layla Riquelme-Cheung, Student, Lakeridge High School

To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.